There is considerable disagreement on how the book of the Revelation should be interpreted. Therefore it is strongly recommended that you consider performing your own inductive study prior to consulting a commentary. The greatest challenge in studying the Revelation is to allow God to say what He says and not try to spiritualize or allegorize the text. The single best inductive study in my opinion is the Precept Ministries International 4 part study on the Revelation (see below ). I would also recommend the Precept inductive study on Daniel (Click Daniel 1-6 - Living Out a Biblical Worldview or Daniel 7-12 -Gaining Understanding of the Time of the End) (Click here for links to commentaries on Daniel) because the truths in the book of the Revelation have their foundation in the prophesy in Daniel. To state it another way, a full understanding of the book of the Revelation is virtually impossible without an accurate understanding of the book of Daniel, especially Daniel 2, Daniel 7, Daniel 8 and Daniel 10-12 (Clue: These last three chapters deal with the same subject).

Before you consult any commentary, it is important to recognize that there arefour schools of interpretation of the Revelation and it is critical to know which view the commentary you are consulting espouses. More importantly you should strive to have a good foundation from your own inductive study before you consult even the most respected commentary or otherwise you will almost certainly be confused by the wide diversity of interpretations of the same passage! The four views of interpretation are summarized in the following chart (see also Bibliography).

Cyril Barber in The Minister's Library - Volume 3 has some cautions on a popular book edited by Steve Gregg, Steve, ed. Revelation: Four Views. A Parallel Commentary writing the following - "Combines four major ways to interpret John’s vision taking a careful look at the postmillennial, amillennial, and premillennial views before discussing the preterist, historicist, futurist, and idealist interpretations. Though lauded by some modern neo-orthodox theologians, this work suffers from some unfortunate limitations (e.g., where futuristic approaches are criticized for assigning everything after chapter 4 to a very limited period of history, and the critique of a literal millennium, etc.). Often the arguments of the contributors is weak (e.g., the identity of the 24 elders), but the editor gives no evidence of the fact that the interpretation of the text is thereby weakened.

Preterist (from Latin praeter meaning "past") holds that through the use of symbols and allegory, the Revelation deals with events that were fulfilled in John's time (they are "past") and that it was written primarily to provide hope and comfort to the first century church persecuted by Rome. In short, preterism holds that all prophecy in the Bible is really history. Preterims (full or consistent preterism) teaches that end time prophecies were fulfilled in 70AD with the destruction of Jerusalem. Thus preterists interpret the beasts of (Rev 13:1, 2, 11-note) as imperial Rome and the imperial priesthood, but notice that they are clearly interpreting the passage allegorically, not literally, for no where in the context is this interpretation even suggested! The preterist view is held by many modern scholars, especially liberals and others who deny that the Revelation is predictive of specific future events. "Preterism teaches that the Law was fulfilled in AD 70 and God’s covenant with Israel was ended. The “new heavens and new earth” spoken of in Revelation 21:1 is, to the preterist, a description of the world under the New Covenant. Just as a Christian is made a “new creation” (2Cor 5:17), so the world under the New Covenant is a “new earth.” This aspect of preterism can easily lead to a belief in replacement theology." Indeed, preterist interpretation is essentially the antithesis of futuristic interpretation!

The historicist approach views the Revelation as a symbolic or allegorical prophetic survey of church history from the first century up to the Second Coming of Christ. This was the view espoused by most of the "reformers" and thus dominated Protestant eschatological teaching for centuries. This view however has been discounted by many as it does not adequately address the prophecies in the Revelation. The discerning reader needs to be aware that the historicist view is reflected in most of the "older" commentaries (many of which are public domain works easily accessible on the internet) including the works of John Knox, Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Wesley, Jonathan Edwards, George Whitefield, C. H. Spurgeon (although Spurgeon did believe in the Millennium), Matthew Henry, Adam Clarke and Albert Barnes. Unless you understand their historicist approach to prophecy, you may become very confused when reading these older "classic" commentaries. Note that with the exception of Spurgeon, these works arenot included in the list of resources. It is also important to realize that many of these "classic" commentaries tend to treat many of the OT promises to Israel as primarily applying to the NT Church, a view that is strongly disavowed by this website (see discussion of The Israel of God). An example of a historicist interpretation is the belief that the strong angel of Revelation 10 symbolizes the Reformation and that the harlot in Revelation 17 represents the Roman Catholic church, both interpretations which a plain reading of the text simply does not allow!

This approach argues that the symbols in the Revelation do not relate to historical events but rather to timeless spiritual truths. Idealists feel that Revelation relates primarily to the church between the first and second coming of Christ. They feel Revelation relates to the battle between God and evil and between the church and the world at all times in church history. The seals, trumpets, and bowls are thought to depict God’s judgments on sinners at all times, and the beast refers to all the anti-Christian empires and rulers in history. Thus the Revelation is viewed as describing the victory of Christ and His people down through history. The Millennium in this approach is not a future event but the final cycle of the book describing the church age. The weaknesses of this view include the failure to see the futuristic aspects of many of the prophecies or to connect them in any way with history. (Adapted from Grant Osborne: Revelation. Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament)

This view is variously referred to as the spiritual approach, the idealist approach or the symbolic approach and makes no attempt to find individual fulfillments of John's visions, instead viewing Revelation as a great drama depicting transcendent spiritual realities, such as the spiritual conflict between Christ and Satan, between the saints and the antichristian world powers. Fulfillment is seen either as entirely spiritual or as recurrent, finding representative expression in historical events throughout the age, rather than in one-time, specific fulfillments. (From Steve Gregg. Revelation, Four views: A Parallel Commentary)

A Literal reading of prophecy will generally lead to a "futurist" interpretation. Thus futurists interpret Revelation 4-22 as predictive of future end time historical events preceding, during and after the return of Jesus Christ, the establishment of His 1000 year (thus futurist are usually "premillennial". Amillennialists spiritualize the 1000 years and postmillennialists spiritualize the resurrection which precedes it), millennial kingdom on earth, followed by the creation of a new heaven and new earth. Variations of this view were held by many of the so-called early church fathers, including men like Justin Martyr (164AD), Irenaeus (195AD), et al. This futuristic approach has enjoyed a revival since the 19th century and is widely held by many if not most modern evangelicals. Note that most of the resource links listed below take a futuristic approach to interpret the Revelation.

Click here for an excellent in depth discussion of the interpretative approaches to the Revelation

The interpretative approach taken by this website regarding Revelation 4-22 is that these passages describe literal people, places and events that will be fulfilled in the future. As someone has well said "If the plain sense makes good sense seek no other sense lest it result in nonsense." Most of the resources on this page are espouse the futuristic view, but this fact does not necessarily mean that we agree with every comment in all of the resources.

The wide divergence of interpretative views makes it imperative that the reader of the Revelation be a "true blue" Berean (Acts 17:11-note) and perform his or her own inductive study prior to consulting any commentary, tape set, web site or sermon, lest he or she become mired down in confusing rhetoric and specious speculation. The Revelation of Jesus Christ was written to edify, equip, encourage and bless God's children, not to hopelessly confuse or divide them. Maranatha!

Precept Ministries International Inductive Study
on the Book of the Revelation

Revelation of Jesus Christ Charted Out Chapter by Chapter and Verse by Verse (Rev 4-22) - Sola Scriptura (with a few questions interspersed) (Html links below are to the 4 sections or you can also select a Pdf that has all 4 sections on one 10 page Pdf)

The listing of a specific resource does not indicate that this website agrees with the interpretative approach taken. Note that it is difficult to "pigeon hole" every author for some express different views on specific prophetic passages. This chart therefore should be used as a general guideline. I have not read every work noted. Therefore if you see a work that appears to be incorrectly or unfairly "categorized" please email me and it will be researched. Note that the majority of the "free" commentaries on the Web at Studylight, BlueLetterBible, etc, are NON-FUTURISTIC works and therefore strong caution is advised in consulting these works unless you have taken time to carefully observe and interpret the text yourself (Note: This caution applies not just to comments on Revelation but on all eschatological topics - study the text for yourself first so you can honestly assess the commentaries!). Otherwise you may become very confused regarding the true interpretation, God's intended meaning of the book of the Revelation.

Rosscup - Devotional, popular-level commentary incorporating illustrations, word studies, and broad scriptural comparison. He is premillennial. and pretribulational, using a fairly literal interpretation. He was a great preacher and Bible teacher in the latter first half and middle of this century. (Commentaries For Biblical Expositors- Dr. Jim Rosscup)

Hiebert - Prints what is called a "free translation" of Revelation. A devotional and practical commentary by an outstanding expository preacher. The material on the last two chapters was contributed by Ralph L. Keiper. The viewpoint is premillennial and pretribulational.

Beasley-Murray, George Raymond, Herschel H. Hobbs, and Ray Frank Robbins. Revelation: Three Viewpoints. Nashville: Broadman Press, 1977. Three Southern Baptists, all of whom have written on prophetic themes, discuss the book of Revelation from different points of view. Beasley-Murray is premillennial and approaches John's vision from the perspective of a postribulationist; Hobbs is amillennial; and Robbins focuses attention on the genre of apocalyptic literature. 228'.06.B38 1977 (Critique from Cyril Barber - The Minister's Library)

Hiebert - An exhaustive treatment from an extreme futurist viewpoint. Accepting "the day of the Lord" (1:10) as the prophetic key, Bullinger insists that everything in Revelation is still future. The seven churches will be reestablished at the end of the age. Represents ultradispensational premillennialism.

Cyril Barber - The Minister's Library (Volume 3) - This is not a commentary on the Book of Revelation, but a well-informed book that introduces readers to the intricacies of interpretation and theology of John’s vision. The book concludes with a verse-by-verse background guide to the contents of the message the risen Lord sent to His Church. Recommended

Hiebert - A series of expository sermons covering all of Revelation by a noted conservative Baptist minister. Based on careful exegesis of the text, the sermons have a practical appeal. The viewpoint is premillennial and pretribulational.

Cyril Barber - The Minister's Library (Volume 3) - A beautifully produced, well-articulated commentary enhanced with numerous colored and blackand-white pictures and charts. The exposition of the biblical text is in the best evangelical tradition and the author gives evidence of being aware of all the different interpretations. Here is a work that can be used with confidence. Premillennial.

Hiebert - A premillennial interpretation advocating a mid-tribulation rapture. Includes a colored chart of Revelation setting forth this view.

Hoyt, Herman A. The Revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ. An Exposition of the Book of the Revelation. Winona Lake, Ind.: Brethren Missionary Herald, 1966.

Hiebert - A concise, well-outlined interpretation from the premillennial, pretribulational viewpoint. The author holds the seven letters also give a prophetic picture of the entire Church age. Well suited to lay study groups.

Cyril Barber - The Minister's Library (Volume 3) - Based on the text of the KJV. First published in 1920. Clear evangelical messages explaining the scope and symbols of the vision John saw on Patmos. Premillennial.....This book has been the means under God of bringing those who were merely curious about prophecy to faith in Christ. It is the kind of book new believers can savor, and its use in young adult and adult discussion groups is to be encouraged. There is one limitation: The text of the KJV has been retained in this revision. A modern translation like the NKJV would have better served the needs of contemporary students of God’s Word. In spite of this limitation, this exposition is heartily recommended.

Cyril Barber - The Minister's Library (Volume 3) - An exposition of Revelation 1--3. “This book is intended to be a wake-up call to the sleeping church of America.”--John F. MacArthur, Jr. It comes highly recommended.

Cyril Barber - The Minister's Library (Volume 3) - Heaven Help US! Truths About Eternity That Will Help You Live Today. Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress, 1995. Well-written, easy-to-grasp messages on Revelation 4--5 and 21--22. Lawson tackles contemporary issues and/or misunderstandings, and explains what the Bible really teaches. Included is a candid discussion of life after death, and the rewards/punishments that will vindicate God’s righteousness. His intent is that we should live our lives on earth in light of these eternal realities. Recommended

Morris, Henry M. The Revelation Record: A Scientific and Devotional Commentary on the Book of Revelation: Tyndale House, 1983 (Note that this is not Leon Morris who is categorized below) Click for a notes

Cyril Barber - The Minister's Library - Treating the Apocalypse chapter-bychapter, Morris provides his readers with numerous sidelights on the text not found in other works.

Hiebert - A full, consistently literal interpretation of Revelation which accepts the symbolic where it is obvious. The viewpoint is premillennial and pretribulational. Has several appendixes, including "Why the church will not be in the Great Tribulation."

Pentecost, J. Dwight.

Phillips, John. Exploring Revelation. Chicago: Moody Press. 1974

Rosscup - Here is a very light dispensational work, often alliterative, picturesque, with frequent illustrations (some quite good), but scant in supporting interpretation. Often Phillips shows no real attempt to grapple with meaning, as on leaving the first love (2:4), being blotted out (3:5), identifying the seven stars, giving more than opinion on being kept in 3:10, who the overcomer is in 2:7, what 4:1 means, etc. He does take the 24 elders as angels (86) and the 144,000 as Israelites, both with shallow support. The work as a whole offers minimal light to help any but elemental readers grasp some points, and for others is pretty much a waste of time unless certain illustrations help. (Commentaries For Biblical Expositors- Dr. Jim Rosscup)

Cyril Barber - The Minister's Library - A careful commentary that those who preach through this portion of God's Word will want to consult. Premillennial.

Ribeira (1537-91) Jesuit scholar held almost all events are future and apply to the end times

Hiebert - An older, premillennial commentary by a British Plymouth-Brethren scholar that has had a strong influence on subsequent premillennial commentaries. A careful exposition, showing awareness of God's program for the future.

Hiebert - A series of fifty-two lectures covering all of the Revelation by a conservative Lutheran preacher-scholar who adhered to the premillennial viewpoint. Still of value as a thorough interpretation of Revelation.

Hiebert - A careful, detailed exegesis by a Mennonite scholar, known for his Greek-English Concordance of the New Testament. The interpretation, following a premillennial, pretribulational eschatology, is consistently literal, except where avowed symbolism demands a different procedure. A noted feature is the abundant use of statistics and comparisons.

Hiebert - Not intended as a full commentary on Revelation but unique as a guide to the various methods of studying Revelation. Gives a fine presentation of various approaches but favors a premillennial stance.

Cyril Barber - The Minister's Library (Volume 3) - Continues the excellent work begun by Thomas in his first volume. Shows the author to be wellread, able to interact with the ideas of scholars of all persuasions, and succeeds in providing a work that now replaces all of the other great treatments of this frequently misunderstood book. Recommended!.....One of the most closely knit, exegetical commentaries ever produced. Supersedes the magisterial works of R. H. Charles and H. B. Swete (and, of course, stands head-and-shoulders above all other works on Revelation produced todate). Thomas is thoroughly evangelical and eminently reliable. He has been ably described as “the finest conservative New Testament scholar of our time.” This is a must for every pastor

Rosscup - Written by one of the foremost modern-day articulators of premillennial dispensationalism, this book is a lucid exposition of the Revelation which combines textual exposition with theological orientation. Walvoord shows awareness of wide reading, gives various views, is fair, and deals with problems as they arise. It is the best broad dispensational work to appear in recent years, and Robert Thomas has the best detailed technical work so far. (Commentaries For Biblical Expositors- Dr. Jim Rosscup)

Hiebert - A thorough exegetical treatment from a dispensational, premillennial, pretribulational viewpoint. A leader in its class.

Wiersbe, Warren. Be Victorious. Wheaton: Victor Books, 1985.

Cyril Barber - The Minister's Library -A clear, easy-to-read, understandable exposition of the book of Revelation. Can be used with profit by individuals or groups. Recommended.

Ladd, George E. A Commentary on the Revelation of John . Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1972.

Historical premillennial, some classify as more futurist, others as preterist-futurist! He is difficult to categorize - in his book on "Last Things: An Eschatology for Laymen" [not recommended to those who seek to interpret Scripture literally] he says he "feels that he must adopt a spiritualizinghermeneutic" He replaces Israel with the church. He believes the rapture is post-tribulation.

Hiebert - A popular commentary on Revelation that takes a premillennial and posttribulational view of eschatology. Ladd sees the Millennium and the whole book of Revelation referring chiefly to the destiny of the Church rather than to the theocratic promises to Israel. Seeks to present different viewpoints and analyze problems of interpretation.

While Iain Murray thought Spurgeon had a "fundamental uncertainty in his mind" regarding eschatology a careful examination of his sermons, his two commentaries (The Treasury of David and Matthew: The Gospel of the Kingdom) and his other writings reveal that he consistently and clearly not only affirmed a historic or covenantal premillennial position; he also rejected the salient tenets of the amillennial, postmillennial and dispensational premillennial schemes.

Spurgeon himself wrote - If I read the word aright, and it is honest to admit that there is much room for difference of opinion here, the day will come, when the Lord Jesus will descend from heaven with a shout, with the trump of the archangel and the voice of God. Some think that this descent of the Lord will be post-millennial—that is, after the thousand years of his reign. I cannot think so. I conceive that the advent will be pre-millennial; that he will come first; and then will come the millennium as the result of his personal reign upon earth.... Paul does not paint the future with rose-color: he is no smooth-tongued prophet of a golden age, into which this dull earth may be imagined to be glowing. There are sanguine brethren who are looking forward to everything growing better and better and better, until, at the last this present age ripens into a millennium. They will not be able to sustain their hopes, for Scripture give them no solid basis to rest upon. We who believe that there will be no millennial reign without the King, and who expect no rule of righteousness except from the appearing of the righteous Lord, are nearer the mark. Apart from the second Advent of our Lord, the world is more likely to sink into pandemonium than to rise into a millennium. A divine interposition seems to me the hope set before us in Scripture, and, indeed, to be the only hope adequate to the situation. We look to the darkening down of things; the state of mankind, however improved politically, may yet grow worse and worse spiritually...We expect a reigning Christ on earth; that seems to us to be very plain, andput so literally that we dare not spiritualize it. We anticipate a first and second resurrection; a first resurrection of the righteous, and a second resurrection of the ungodly, who shall be judged, condemned, and punished for ever by the sentence of the great King. (Charles H. Spurgeon and the Nation of Israel)

Hiebert - Prints author's own translation. Volume 1, covering the first five chapters, deals extensively with the seven letters. The author's strong points are his handling of historical data and his Greek word studies.

Beckwith, Isbon T. The Apocalypse of John . New York: Macmillan, 1922.

Hiebert - Greek text. An introduction of over four hundred pages on various introductory problems reveals impeccable scholarship. A critical commentary of nearly four hundred pages deals closely with the Greek text. Amillennial in viewpoint.

Berkouwer, G. C. The Return of Christ. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1972.

Bruce, F. F. "The Revelation to John." In A New Testament Commentary. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1969.

Byrum, C. S., Parvin S. Unlocking the Mysteries 150 FAQs About Revelation and the End of the World. Nashville: Abingdon, 1999.

Caird, G.B. The Revelation of St. John the Divine. Harper's New Testament Commentaries . New York: Harper, 1966.

Hiebert - Prints author's own translation. Valuable for a reconstruction of the first-century setting. A scholarly commentary which takes the symbolism of Revelation to represent imminent historical rather than eschatological events.

Charles, R.H. A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the Revelation of St. John . 2 vols. Edinburgh: 1920.

Hiebert - Greek text. The massive work of a liberal British scholar who was a master of Jewish apocalyptic literature. A mine of historical and grammatical information. Holds to preterist view.

Chilton, David. The Days of Vengeance: An Exposition of the Book of Revelation: Ft. Worth, Tex.: Dominion Press, 1987

Glasson, T. F. The Revelation of John. The Cambridge Bible Commentary on the New English Bible . 1965.

Hanegraaff, Hank The Apocalypse Code: Find Out What the Bible REALLY Says About the End Times

Note: Unfortunately this author is well known and this book will propagate a teaching which is distinctly opposed to literal, natural, normal interpretation of the Scriptures. E.g., Hanegraaff teaches that Nero was the Beast of Revelation! This book is definitely NOT RECOMMENDED if you REALLY want to understand what God said in the Revelation of Jesus Christ! - See Well Done Review of this Book by Thomas Ice) (As an aside if you listen to his program "The Bible Answer Man" - there is good material on the cults but highly questionable material on eschatological matters. Be a Berean!)

Pieters, Albertus. Studies in the Revelation of St. John . Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1954.

Poythress, Vern S - The Returning King. A Guide to the Book of Revelation

Rosscup - amillennial...Poythress, without much except opinion, prefers a combination of elements from the views, and a repeated pattern of events in the first century, now, and in the final crisis (37). He opts for angels in Rev 2:1 with little evidence, is ambiguous about who the overcomer is (Rev 2:7, “faithful saints”?), has no mention of leaving the first love (Rev 2:4), gives no help on the book of life (Rev 3:5), generalizes on those kept in Rev 3:10, and thinks the horsemen in Rev. 6:1ff “correspond to” the four living creatures (?) and the four horsemen of Zech. 1:8 (meaning what?). He views the first four seal trends as realized in Roman Empire tumults, occurring also now, and again to occur just before Christ’s Second Coming. The 144,000 are all of God’s people, the multitude in Rev 7:9 the same, the woman in Rev 12:1ff this same group, the millennium is today, etc. (Commentaries For Biblical Expositors- Dr. Jim Rosscup)

Sproul, R. C.: Sproul, R. The last days according to Jesus. Grand Rapids: Baker Books. 1998

Summers, Ray. Worthy Is the Lamb. Nashville: Broadman, 1951.

Sweet, J.P.M. Revelation. Philadelphia: Westminster, 1979.

Swete, Henry Barclay. The Apocalypse of St. John. New York: Macmillan, 1906.

Hiebert - A classic commentary on the Greek text, important for Greek exegesis. Contains an exhaustive 200-page introduction. The viewpoint is eclectic, finding points of contact with the various different systems of apocalyptic interpretation. Has a full list of patristic and modern commentaries up to 1908. Invaluable for the advanced student.

AN OUTLINE OF
THE REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST
D EDMOND HIEBERT

An Outline of the Revelation
I. The Introduction, Revelation 1:1-8
A. The superscription, Revelation 1:1-3
B. The salutation and response, Revelation 1:4-8
1. The epistolary greeting, Revelation 1:4-5a
2. The dedication, Revelation 1:5b-6
3. The prophetic testimony, Revelation 1:7-8
II. "The Things Which Thou Sawest," Revelation 1:9-20
A. The setting of the vision, Revelation 1:9-11
B. The content of the vision, Revelation 1:12-16
C. The results of the vision, Revelation 1:17-20
1. The word of comfort, Revelation 1:17-18
2. The commission to write, Revelation 1:19-20
III. "The Things Which Are," Revelation 2:1-3:22
A. The message to the church in Ephesus, Revelation 2:1-7
1. The recipient, Revelation 2:1a
2. The Speaker, Revelation 2:1b
3. The message, Revelation 2:2-6
4. The invitation, Revelation 2:1a
5. The promise, Revelation 2:7b
B. The message to the church in Smyrna, Revelation 2:8-11
C. The message to the church in Pergamum, Revelation 2:12-17
D. The message to the church in Thyatira, Revelation 2:18-29
E. The message to the church in Sardis, Revelation 3:1-6
F. The message to the church in Philadelphia, Revelation 3:7-13
G. The message to the church in Laodicea, Revelation 3:14-22
IV. "The Things Which Shall Be Hereafter," Revelation 4:1-22:5
A. The divine throne and the sealed book, Revelation 4:1-5:14
1. The opened door in heaven, Revelation 4:1
2. The enthroned Sovereign, Revelation 4:2-11
a. The scene connected with the throne, Revelation 4:2-7
b. The worship of the One on the throne, Revelation 4:8-11
3. The sealed book and its challenge, Revelation 5:1-5
4. The Lamb in the midst of the throne,Revelation 5:6-7
5. The universal worship of the Lamb, Revelation 5:8-14
B. The events of the great tribulation period, Revelation 6:1-18:24
1. The opening of the seven seals, Revelation 6:1-8:5
a. The first seal: rider on a white horse, Revelation 6:1-2
b. The second seal: rider on a red horse, Revelation 6:3-4
c. The third seal: rider on a black horse, Revelation 6:5-6
d. The fourth seal: rider on a pale horse, Revelation 6:7-8
e. The fifth seal: martyrs under the altar, Revelation 6:9-11
f. The sixth seal: universal convulsions, Revelation 6:12-17
g. Inset: the redeemed of the great tribulation, Revelation 7:1-17
i. The sealing of 144,000 of Israel, Revelation 7:1-8
ii. The saved multitude out of all nations, Revelation 7:1-9
h. The seventh seal: silence and preparation, Revelation 8:1-5
2. The sounding of the seven trumpets, Revelation 8:6-11:19
a. The first trumpet: hail, fire, and blood upon earth, Revelation 8:6-7
b. The second trumpet: burning mountain cast into the sea, Revelation 8:8-9
c. The third trumpet: star falling on fresh waters, Revelation 8:10-11
d. The fourth trumpet: heavenly bodies affected, Revelation 8:12
e. The angelic announcement of three woe trumpets, Revelation 8:13
f. The fifth trumpet: locusts from the bottomless pit, Revelation 9:1-12
g. The sixth trumpet: four angels and the demonic horsemen, Revelation 9:13-21
h. Inset: scenes during the great tribulation, Revelation 10:1-11:14
i. The strong angel and the little book, Revelation 10:1-11
ii. The temple and the two witnesses, Revelation 11:1-14
a. The measuring of the temple, Revelation 11:1-2
b. The career of the two witnesses, Revelation 11:3-14
i. The seventh trumpet: worship and heavenly temple opened, Revelation 11:15-19
3. Inset: Personages of the great tribulation, Revelation 12:1-14:20
a. The woman and the dragon, Revelation 12:1-17
i. The dragon and the man-child, Revelation 12:1-6
ii. The expulsion of Satan and his angels from heaven, Revelation 12:7-12
iii. The dragon's persecution of the woman and her seed, Revelation 12:13-17
b. The two ruling beasts, Revelation 13:1-18
i. The beast from the sea, Revelation 13:1-10
ii. The beast from the earth, Revelation 13:11-18
c. The Lamb and the 144,000 on Mount Zion, Revelation 14:1-5
d. The three angelic messengers, Revelation 14:6-12
i. The proclamation of the eternal Gospel, Revelation 14:6-8
ii. The announcement of the fall of Babylon, Revelation 14:8
iii. The warning against worship of the beast, Revelation 14:9-12
e. The announcement concerning the blessed dead, Revelation 14:13
f. The reapers of earth's harvest, Revelation 14:14-20
i. The "son of man" and the harvest, Revelation 14:14-16
ii. The angel and the vintage of God's wrath, Revelation 14:17-20
4. The pouring out of the seven bowls, Revelation 15:1-16:21
a. The heavenly preparation for the final judgments, Revelation 15:1-16:1
i. The sign of the seven bowl angels, Revelation 15:1
ii. The vision of the overcomers, Revelation 15:2-4
iii. The preparation of the seven angels for judgment, Revelation 15:5-16:1
b. The first bowl: malignant sores on men, Revelation 16:2
c. The second bowl: turning of sea into blood, Revelation 16:3
d. The third bowl: turning of fresh waters into blood, Revelation 16:4-7
e. The fourth bowl: scorching heat from the sun, Revelation 16:8-9
f. The fifth bowl: darkness and pain on beast's kingdom, Revelation 16:10-11
g. The sixth bowl: drying of Euphrates for kings of the East, Revelation 16:12
h. Inset: The satanic preparations for Armageddon, Revelation 16:13-17
i. The seventh bowl: final judgment in devastating earthquake and hail, Revelation 16:17-21
5. Inset: The overthrow of Babylon, Revelation 17:1-18:24
a. The judgment upon the great harlot, Revelation 17:1-18
i. The vision of the harlot, Revelation 17:1-6
ii. The agents of her judgment, Revelation 17:7-15
iii. The execution of the judgment, Revelation 17:16-18
b. The destruction of the great city, Revelation 18:1-24
i. The angelic proclamation of Babylon's fall, Revelation 18:11-3
ii. The voice from heaven concerning the fall, Revelation 18:14-20
iii. The angelic act and dirge over the fall, Revelation 18:121-24
C. The return of Christ in glory, Revelation 19:1-21
1. The rejoicing in heaven, Revelation 19:1-10
a. The rejoicing over the judgment of the harlot, Revelation 19:1-5
b. The rejoicing over the marriage of the Lamb, Revelation 19:6-9
c. The correction of John's attempted worship, Revelation 19:10
2. The return of Christ to earth as Conqueror, Revelation 19:11-21
a. The coming of the King with His armies, Revelation 19:11-16
b. The summoning of the birds to the great supper of God, Revelation 19:17-18
c. The doom of the enemies on earth, Revelation 19:19-21
D. The millennial Kingdom, Revelation 20:1-10
1. The binding of Satan for one thousand years, Revelation 20:1-3
2. The millennial reign of Christ with the saints, Revelation 20:4-6
3. The crushing of the final Satan-led rebellion, Revelation 20:7-10
E. The postmillennial events, Revelation 20:11-22:5
1. The judgment of the dead at the great white throne, Revelation 20:11-14
2. The new heaven and the new earth, Revelation 21:1-8
3. The vision of the New Jerusalem, Revelation 21:9-22:5
a. The description of the city, Revelation 21:9-27
b. The delights of the city, Revelation 22:1-5
V. The conclusion, Revelation 22:6-21
A. The trustworthiness of the Revelation, Revelation 22:6-7
B. The worthiness of God alone as object of worship, Revelation 22:8-9
C. The concluding instructions concerning the book, Revelation 22:10-20
1. The words of comfort and assurance, Revelation 22:10-17
2. The warning against altering the book, Revelation 22:18-19
3. The concluding testimony concerning the coming, Revelation 22:20
D. The benediction, Revelation 22:21

Comment - I have scanned several sections of this 272 page work and found it to be a lucid, literalistic interpretation. It is well-reasoned and not sensationalistic and therefore is recommended to supplement your study of the great Revelation of Jesus Christ.

Hiebert - A series of expository sermons covering all of Revelation by a noted conservative Baptist minister. Based on careful exegesis of the text, the sermons have a practical appeal. The viewpoint is premillennial and pretribulational.

The links below comprise about 55 pages of well done commentary notes from Dr Morris. Holding the mouse over links to Scripture pops us the verse in the NAS translation. The links of the following words and phrases open up Dr Morris' comments but note that these words and phrases are based on the old KJV translation.

Rosscup comments on Dr Morris' book "The Revelation Record" - A 521–pp. premillennial, pretribulational work by a writer who has specialized in hydrology and geology and desires to help with the many references to natural phenomena. His perspective is full verbal inspiration, and a literal interpretation in the futuristic vein. At times things are rather artificially blocked off: chapters 4–11 cover the first half of the seven-year tribulation period, chapters 12–19 the second half (p. 27). Morris holds that the 24 elders are men, the locust-like beings of chapter 9 are demonic spirits, the two witnesses of chapter 11 are Enoch and Elijah who have waited in heaven in their natural bodies [?] since departing this earth. Babylon in chapters 17–18 is the literal, rebuilt city of Babylon on the Euphrates as a world center of trade, communications, education, etc. (pp. 348–49), the rider on the white horse of 6:2 is Christ who is on the white horse in 19:11, etc. Morris is fairly thorough in taking things literally and gives his reasons, but allows for symbolism, e. g. the woman (12:1), the white horse (6:2; 19:11), the two-edged sword, etc. There is sometimes an indefiniteness (lack of clarity) in who the “overcomer” is, at times sounding like some more faithful among the saved (p. 59) but sometimes every redeemed person (pp. 227, 443). (Commentaries For Biblical Expositors- Dr. Jim Rosscup)

(Ed comment: The overcomers are defined by John in his letter declaring "For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world-- our faith. And who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?" (1 Jn 5:4-5). In short, overcomers are not some that are "more faithful" but are those who have faith in Jesus!)

Comment: Although this author is not well known like many of the writers of commentaries on the Revelation, without a doubt Garland's work is one of the more complete conservative resources available in any format (and this one is available online for free or for purchase in digital format [A Testimony of Jesus Christ - Logos Bible Software] or as a hardbound book [Ref)). An unusual feature of this book is that Garland explores the many connections between the visions seen by the Apostle John and previous prophetic revelation given to Old Testament prophets such as Daniel, Ezekiel, and others. There are also well over 1000 bibliographic references. There are thousands of Scripture cross references and all pop up in context (NASB) for quick review (and "+" sign demarcates a commentary note on that passage). Another interesting aspect of this commentary is that the author often discusses other interpretations of specific passages. For example, see the Revelation 12:1 comments on the identity of the "great sign," the "woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars", where Garland discusses the three main views of her identity as either Israel, the Church or a pagan symbol. The hardbound version of this commentary is 1172 pages (Read the reviews of this book at Amazon) If you are thinking about preaching or teaching through Revelation, this commentary is a "must have!" Another advantage for preaching or teaching is that the commentary is linked to a free companion internet course providing an additional 70 hours of audio instruction linked to almost 1,000 slides (WebShow - Revelation - Study Resources - Slides with sound or Slides Only) The slides can be used to supplement your presentation. Finally, another helpful feature of this commentary is frequent use of tables (see complete list) on a variety of subjects to aid quick comparison such as...

Revelation 1:1-8; The Second Coming: Since Jesus Christ will return, we are always to be ready for that great event. Video

Revelation 1:9-20;Leadership Responsibilities: All spiritual leaders in local churches are responsible to prepare people for Christ's return. Video

Revelation 2:1-7; The Greatest Commands: Spiritual leaders are to teach all believers to love God and one another. Video

Revelation 2:8-11; Persecution and Suffering: As followers of Jesus Christ, we are to consider persecution as an opportunity to grow spiritually. Video

Revelation 2:12-17; False Teaching: We must always be on guard against any teaching that contradicts what we are taught in Scripture. Video

Revelation 2:18-29; Church Discipline: Spiritual leaders are responsible to confront false prophets who lead people astray. Video

Revelation 3:1-6; The True Gospel: To inherit salvation, we must receive the gift of eternal life through faith and not rely on our works. Video

Revelation 3:7-13; Our Eternal Salvation: Because of our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, verified by our good works, we should be confident that we have eternal life now and forever. Video

Revelation 3:14-22;Receiving Christ: To become authentic communities of faith, we must receive the Lord Jesus Christ and allow Him to take control of our hearts and lives. Video

Revelation 4:1; Interpreting Revelation: To interpret the book of Revelation, we should consider how God's redemptive plan relates to incidents in the first century, events throughout church history, and future prophetic happenings. Video

Revelation 4:2-5; Supernatural Revelations: We must be very cautious and guarded in listening to people today who claim to have encountered God directly and received specific revelations. Video

Revelation 4:9-11; True Worship: In view of God's grace and mercy in providing for our salvation, we should respond in grateful worship. Video

Revelation 5:1-14;Servant and Sovereign: To worship Jesus Christ as we should, we must understand and believe that He is both a humble servant and the sovereign Lord. Video

Revelation 6:1-8;Scriptural Correlation: When we interpret the symbols in this book, we should consult other prophetic references and descriptions in the whole Bible, including within Revelation. Video

Revelation 6:9-17; Security in Christ: As believers, we are not to live in fear of these awesome judgments. Video

Revelation 7:1-17;The Blood of the Lamb: To inherit eternal life, we must have our sins washed away by the blood of Jesus Christ. Video

Revelation 8:1-6; God's Mercy: We are to rejoice and be thankful that God will continue to offer His gift of salvation to lost people until the final judgment at the great white throne. Video

Revelation 8:7-13;Hardened Hearts: We are to warn unbelievers to respond to the message of salvation immediately and not to harden their hearts. Video

Revelation 9:1-12; Using Evil for Good: Regardless of Satan's activities in the world, we are to be assured that God can even use evil to accomplish His will. Video

Revelation 9:13-21; The Armor of God: As believers living today, we must use God's armor to defeat Satan and his evil associates when they attack us in various ways. Video

Revelation 10:1-11; Compassionate Hearts: Though as believers we are to long for Christ's appearing, we are never to lose our compassion for those who will face eternal judgment. Video

Revelation 11:1-14; Prophetic Warnings: Believers should more and more acknowledge God's divine nature and worship the Almighty. Video

Revelation 11:15-19; Our Almighty God: Though as believers we will eventually be like Christ and live in God's eternal kingdom, we should more and more reflect our Almighty God's holy nature in the here and now. Video

Revelation 12:1-18; Satan's Strategy: As the time for Christ's return draws near, we should expect Satan to intensify his efforts to disrupt God's redemptive plan. Video

Revelation 13:1-18; The Great Commission: Though we are to be aware of events that may signal Christ's second coming, we are to focus on the task Jesus gave us when He ascended to heaven. Video

Revelation 14:1-5; Models of Faithfulness: We should consider the 144,000 as models of what it means to be dedicated disciples of Jesus Christ in the midst of an evil world. Video

Revelation 14:6-13;Eternal Life or Death: In presenting the eternal gospel, we must make it clear that all human beings are given a choice that leads to everlasting life or never-ending separation from God. Video

Revelation 15:5-16:21; God's Patience: We must understand that the seals, trumpets, and bowls are a series of intense warnings giving people an opportunity to repent before they face God's final judgment. Video

Revelation 17:1-18:24; Signs of the Times: Though we are to be cautious in making specific predictions about the second coming of Jesus Christ, we are to be alert to certain signs that may signal His imminent return. Video

Revelation 19:1-10; The Marriage of the Lamb: As the bride of Christ--the Church--we are more and more to live godly lives so as to be ready to be united to our heavenly bridegroom. Video

Revelation 19:11-21; Imminent or Distant: Whatever our view of Christ's return to rule and reign, we are to expect that He could remove believers from the earth at any moment. Video

Revelation 20:1-6; Christ Our King: Regardless of our view of the 1,000-year reign of Christ, as believers today we are to allow Jesus Christ to reign in our hearts as we carry out the Great Commission. Video

Revelation 20:7-10;The Wages of Sin: We must never minimize the impact of original sin when Adam and Eve disobeyed God. Video

Revelation 20:11-15; Eternal Judgment: As those who believe the Bible is the Word of God, we must never teach a doctrine of universalism--that all people will eventually go to heaven. Video

Revelation 21:1-8; The Process of Renewal: Though a time will come when God will make everything new, as believers we are already new creations in Christ and we are to become more and more like Him as we prepare to live in our eternal home. Video

Revelation 21:9-22:5;Eternal Fellowship: Though the new Jerusalem will be a magnificent place to spend eternity, we must remember that our focus will be on God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Video

Revelation 22:8-9; Godly Worship: Since worshiping God and the Son is one of the most prominent features of the book of Revelation, we should evaluate the quality of our personal and corporate worship. Video

Revelation 22:16-21;God's Message Today: As we read the book of Revelation, we must carefully consider what Jesus Christ is still saying to churches today--and especially to those who are primary shepherds of God's people. Video

Floyd Hitchcock = Returned Missionary from Japan and Korea, Radio Pastor, KWTO, Springfield, Mo., Editor of The Gospel Messenger, Pastor of Radio Gospel Center. The Flying Preacher: Pilot of “The Good Ship Emmanuel”

Rosscup - Michaels takes no stand on authorship by the Apostle John, using arbitrary reasoning against it (18–19). He also is flimsy and misrepresenting in remarks against a futurist approach, as if simply not properly informed of how better futurist thinkers explain details, and unfair to them (23). His bibliography does not even list Robert L. Thomas’ detailed exegetical 2-vol. work taking a futurist position. Somehow Michaels is able to discuss possible views for the “woman” (Rev. 12) without being aware of the common premillennial view that she represents Israel for various reasons (148), which Michaels does not forthrightly mention or answer. The same seeming lack of awareness shows in discussing the 144,000 who, to Michaels, are saints out of all nations in 7:9, and the view of the two witnesses in Rev. 11. One would almost think that he author did this amillennial work without checking many interpreters who argue the hermeneutical naturalness of taking literal views in Rev. 6–20. So he often is out of touch, and limits his readers where he might have provided more representative, informed discussions. (Commentaries For Biblical Expositors- Dr. Jim Rosscup)

D Edmond Hiebert - Expository lectures by a noted Plymouth Brethren scholar of the past century. The author uses Scripture to try to explain the symbols of the book. The viewpoint is premillennial and pretribulational.

Comments: Generally takes a literal, conservative approach but you mustbe aBerean (Acts 17:11-note) when you read his comments. E.g., in Rev 14:6,7 Larkin describes the "Eternal Gospel" preached by the angel as not related to salvation but judgment (Larkin), a teaching with which I strongly disagree, as does John MacArthur (note) or Tony Garland (note). He has some charts which are nice but must be viewed with the same Berean mindset!

Rosscup on MacArthur's published 2 volume commentary on Revelation - Here 677 pp. explain and apply the Revelation in a dispensational way. After a 10-pp. introduction contending for the Apostle John as author ca. A. D. 95, material that was originally in sermons expounds each verse. The “angels” (messengers) in Rev 2:1 are seen as human leaders, overcomers are all the saved, believers’ names will not be erased from the heavenly roll as citizens’ names are blotted from an earthly city record, the 24 elders are the whole raptured church (dispensationalists and non-dispensationalists differ on this), judgments in Rev 6–19 are literal, the 144,000 are physical but saved Israelites with their very tribes listed, the locust-like creatures are vile demons that take on a visible form resembling locusts, the woman in Rev 12 is Israel which brought forth the child, Christ, etc. MacArthur makes points of truth applicable in various parts of the Revelation to guide believers to live godly lives. (Commentaries For Biblical Expositors- Dr. Jim Rosscup)

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Seeing Christ More Clearly
2. There is None Like Him
3. Ephesus – A Drifting Church
4. Smyrna – A Delightful Church
5. Pergamos – A Divided Church
6. Thyatira – A Depraved Church
7. Sardis – A Dead Church
8. Philadelphia – Another Delightful Church
9. Laodicea – A Disgraceful Church
10. A Throne of Mercy Becomes A Throne of Judgment
11. Who Is Worthy To Open The Book?
12. A New Song in Heaven
13. The Opening Of The Seals: Part One
14. The Opening Of The Seals: Part Two
15. The Saved Of The Tribulation Period
16. Trumpet Judgments: Part One
17. Trumpet Judgments: Part Two
18. The Mighty Angel And The Magnificent Scroll
19. The Two Witnesses
20. The Blowing Of The Seventh Trumpet
21. Conflict Involving Satan
22. The Beast
23. The Second Beast
24. The Lord God Triumphant: Part One
25. The Lord God Triumphant: Part Two
26. The Last Judgments Introduced
27. The Pouring Out Of The Seven Vials
28. The Harlot of Revelation 17
29. Commercial Babylon Under Fire
30. The Supper Of The Great God And The Marriage Of The Lamb
31. The Peril And The Punishment Of The Last Days
32. All About Heaven
33. The Last Chapter

Rosscup - He is good on the seven churches from the standpoint of philology (the study of literature and of disciplines relevant to literature or to language as used in literature) and explaining historical customs which illumine many statements found here. A major weakness is that he does not document his sources so that it becomes difficult to check up on him. (Commentaries For Biblical Expositors- Dr. Jim Rosscup)

D Edmond Hiebert - Prints author's own translation. Volume 1, covering the first five chapters, deals extensively with the seven letters. The author's strong points are his handling of historical data and his Greek word studies.

Excerpt from Bonar - "The prophecies concerning Israel are the key to all the rest. True principles of interpretation, in regard to them, will aid us in disentangling and illustrating all prophecy together. False principles as to them (Israel) will most thoroughly perplex and overcloud the whole Word of God."

Holman Christian Standard Bible -Study Bibleliteral and futuristic. Here is a sample from Revelation 20:4-6
Rev 20:4-6 Those who sit on the thrones and have authority to judge are God's people (Dan 7:18,27; 1Co 6:2). The resurrection of martyrs before Christ's earthly reign is called the first resurrection. Since "first resurrection" implies a second resurrection will follow, some interpreters take the first resurrection to be spiritual only (e.g., being "born again") in order to maintain the concept of a general bodily resurrection at the end of time. The fifth beatitude (blessed) of the book recognizes the holiness of those in the first resurrection. On the second death, see verse 14 and note at verses 11-15. Premillennialists follow the natural order of this passage, taking the 1,000 years as falling after the second coming of Christ. Others believe it is a "flashback" (recapitulation) of the time before the second advent, viewing it from a different perspective. Among those who take the recapitulation approach, Amillennialists believe the reign of Christ is being accomplished spiritually even now through the church. This view takes the 1,000 years figuratively, stretching over the entire church era. Postmillennialists believe the preaching of the gospel will at some future date bring about virtual worldwide conversion and a golden era of biblical values lasting 1,000 years (a time taken literally by some, figuratively by others).

Comment on Ps 30:5 - Joy in the morning at the resurrection of Jesus: Joy in the coming of the Saviour for his bride: Joy as the Millennium breaks on the world." Comments on Ps 38:9 - Think of the desires of the saints — for the realization of their ideals; for the salvation of men; for the glory of the Redeemer; for the Divine answer to the scoff, the sneer, the taunt of infidelity; for the coming of the King, the restoration of his ancient people, the setting up of the millennial reign." (Psalms-F. B. Meyer)

Given that Dr John Piper is one of the most influential modern pastors, it would be interesting to see how he interprets prophetic topics like the "millennium." In searching desiringgod.org, I found only a few comments related to eschatology but the following will give you a sample of his position...

"Are You Becoming a Post-Millennialist?" (November 10, 1986) One of our apprentices put this question to me. The reason was my recommendation of a book called The Puritan Hope by Iain Murray. My sermon last Sunday may raise the same question. Here's my answer. No. I am becoming a more hope-filled pre-millennialist. What in the world does all this mean? The “millennium” refers to the period of 1,000 years mentioned in Revelation 20:3, “He threw Satan into the pit, and shut it and sealed it over him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years were ended. After that he must be loosed for a little while.” Then it says in verse 4 that the saints “came to life, and reigned with Christ a thousand years.” So the thousand-year period is a time when Satan is bound and the saints are reigning with Christ. This seems to imply a time of great glory for the church and victory over evil. Yet it is not the perfect final state, because “after that Satan must be loosed for a little while.” Pre-millennialists believe that Christ will return before (pre) this thousand-year period to judge unbelievers, and that he will reign bodily on the earth during the millennium. Post-millennialists believe that Christ will return after (post) the thousand-year period. At that point he will judge unbelievers and establish the new heavens and new earth. So post-millennialist believe that the reign of Christ in the “millennium” is his spiritual reign in the church, and that the peace and glory of the millennium will come about not through the return of Christ, but through the power of the Holy Spirit in the preaching of the gospel. In other words, the church will gradually conquer the world of unbelief through worldwide revival, and there will be a “golden age” when righteousness and peace will hold sway for a thousand years. Then Christ will come. Most of the missionaries of the early modern missionary movement were post-millennialists (Eliot, Brainerd, Carey, etc.). The Puritans that I praised on Sunday were post-millennialist. Their hope was that the gospel would eventually conquer the world before Christ returned. (Ref)

Here is an excerpt from David Brickner, the head of Jews for Jesus, in a dialogue with John Piper who has some questionable (in my opinion and in Brickner's opinion) teachings on the nation of Israel -

I appreciate your clear statement of belief in God's continuing purposes for ethnic Israel. I also note that you affirm, "God promised to Israel the presently disputed land from the time of Abraham onward." And yet there seems to be a "disconnect" between those statements and your comments regarding the present-day situation as well as the future. As I see it, this disconnect occurs at two important points.

First, you say that because the majority of Jews do not believe in Jesus they have broken covenant with God and have no divine claim at this time to the land God promised them.

Second, you say that the future of the land promised to Israel becomes subsumed under the promise of God that all believers will "inherit the land … because the entire new heavens and new earth will be ours."

Rosscup - This is the outstanding older work on the historical background of the churches in chapters 2–3. The student will obtain much rich detail here to lend colorful vividness to his preaching and teaching. Ramsay takes the preterist point of view on the book. Colin Hemer’s 1986 work now surpasses this in updating on scholarly discussion and discovery and in comments on some details. Until Hemer and Yamauchi, this was the outstanding work. (Commentaries For Biblical Expositors- Dr. Jim Rosscup)

Charles H. Spurgeon and the Nation of Israel- In this excerpt Spurgeon declared - There will be a native government again; there will again be the form of a body politic; a state shall be incorporated, and a king shall reign. Israel has now become alienated from her own land. Her sons, though they can never forget the sacred dust of Palestine, yet die at a hopeless distance from her consecrated shores. But it shall not be so for ever, for her sons shall again rejoice in her: her land shall be called Beulah, for as a young man marrieth a virgin so shall her sons marry her. "I will place you in your own land," is God's promise to them . . . They are to have a national prosperity which shall make them famous; nay, so glorious shall they be that Egypt, and Tyre, and Greece, and Rome, shall all forget their glory in the greater splendour of the throne of David . . . I there be anything clear and plain, the literal sense and meaning of this passage [Ezekiel 37:1-10]—a meaning not to be spirited or spiritualized away—must be evident that both the two and the ten tribes of Israel are to be restored to their own land, and that a king is to rule over them

Spurgeon wrote - Let us rejoice that Scripture is so clear and so explicit upon this great doctrine of the future triumph of Christ over the whole world. We are not bound to enter into any particulars concerning what form that triumph shall assume. We believe that the Jews will be converted, and that they will be restored to their own land. We believe that Jerusalem will be the central metropolis of Christ’s kingdom; we also believe that all the nations shall walk in the light of the glorious city which shall be built at Jerusalem. We expect that the glory which shall have its center there, shall spread over the whole world, covering it as with a sea of holiness, happiness, and delight. For this we look with joyful expectation. ( The Lamb--The Light)

Rosscup - This is a premillennial, dispensational study which takes a thorough-going literal approach to the book. It is good on the English text and will have its main usefulness in some points for lay people. Read Ironside and Ryrie to maintain a balance in a lighter dispensational work. (Commentaries For Biblical Expositors- Dr. Jim Rosscup)

But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished.

The rest of the dead will not come to life until the end of the Millennium. This is the resurrection of the lost of all ages (20:11-15). This resurrection will not occur until after the Millennium (v.11).

This is the first resurrection.

The New Testament uses the word “resurrection” 40 times. It always refers to physical, bodily resurrection except in Luke 2:34.

The “first resurrection” is not the first chronological resurrection because Christ was thefirst to rise from the dead. “Many” rose from the dead when Christ rose (Matthew 27:52-53).

The “first” resurrection is in contrast to the “last” resurrection (20:12-13). The word “first” carries the idea of “before.” All the righteous dead are raised before the resurrection of the wicked dead at the end of the 1000 years.

The resurrection of the righteous comes in phases (1 Corinthians 15:23). Christ rose first, then the “many,” then the church, then the Tribulation saints and finally the Old Testament saints (Isaiah 26:19-21; Ezekiel 37:12-14; Daniel 12:2-3).

Joseph Augustus Seiss' (picture) Lectures on the Apocalypse was initially published in 3 volumes in the mid-1800's and has become widely accepted by modern evangelical scholars as one of the first popular works based upon the futurist interpretation of the Revelation.

Rosscup - Written by one of the foremost modern-day articulators of premillennial dispensationalism, this book is a lucid exposition of the Revelation which combines textual exposition with theological orientation. Walvoord shows awareness of wide reading, gives various views, is fair, and deals with problems as they arise. It is the best broad dispensational work to appear in recent years, and Robert Thomas has the best detailed technical work so far. (Commentaries For Biblical Expositors- Dr. Jim Rosscup)

Book

DISCLAIMER: Before you "go to the commentaries" go to the Scriptures and study them inductively (Click 3 part overview of how to do Inductive Bible Study) in dependence on your Teacher, the Holy Spirit, Who Jesus promised would guide us into all the truth (John 16:13). Remember that Scripture is always the best commentary on Scripture. Any commentary, even those by the most conservative and orthodox teacher/preachers cannot help but have at least some bias of the expositor based upon his training and experience. Therefore the inclusion of specific links does not indicate that we agree with every comment. We have made a sincere effort to select only the most conservative, "bibliocentric" commentaries. Should you discover some commentary or sermon you feel may not be orthodox, please email your concern. I have removed several links in response to concerns by discerning readers. I recommend that your priority be a steady intake of solid Biblical food so that with practice you will have your spiritual senses trained to discern good from evil (Heb 5:14-note).